Helen J. Lake's Obituary
On May 23, 2022, Helen Lake made her transition, but that’s the end of the story. Let’s go back to the beginning.
On February 2, 1930, Hurricane Helen arrived at a small town near Ann Arbor, Michigan. Number eight of ten children, daughter of a school teacher and a farmer, she would realize that country life was not for her.
Hurricanes do not thrive in the Midwest. They need heat and warm water to grow. With four of her five children, including one handicapped, she made landfall at Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1963. Helen lived most of her life before social media. Believe me, lack of evidence can be a good thing when you are always ready for a party. Young at heart and with a rebellious nature, she refused to be limited. She served as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale.
Toward the end of her time on earth, the hurricane became more of a warm tropical breeze. She is survived by far too many to list, but there are some that require mention.
Son Ray and his family, Brenda, Shawn, Lindsey, but especially Connor. To the end she talked about the days she spent with you making up silly games with no rules. Mike and his son Gary. Daughter Mary and her daughter Rebecca. Very special niece and her husband, Linda and Eric. I’m sure Aunt Honee is playing cards with your mom and dad on the other side. Robin, Macala, Jason, Russell and their families. Lisa, Dave and Karen, she appreciated your thoughtfulness.
Helen had another family. Her “daughters”, Lourdes, Olga, Ollie, Jackie, Ellen, Sarah and granddaughter Ericka. She especially loved your diversity. While she loved the girls, I must admit the boys were probably her favorites. Her English son Chris and her crazy son Michael Patrick. Michael, the one piece of jewelry she had on when she died was the bracelet the “Count of Monte Crisco” made her this year.
I didn’t list myself, Elizabeth, but if you knew Helen, you knew me. For those I failed to mention, I apologize. Those who were close to her know who you are and know you were appreciated. As she lived, so she died. It was unexpected but when I look at the circumstances, it was exactly the way she wanted.
What’s your fondest memory of Helen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Helen?
Share a story where Helen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Helen you’ll never forget.
How did Helen make you smile?